Good Systems · public information library

How can I help someone when they forget things unless they are right in front of them?

People come here to understand why something in everyday life feels harder, different or more costly than it should — and what might make it work better.

Short answer

Put the reminder in the place where they will need it.

What this can look like

The reminder may exist but be hidden in an app, under papers or in a place they never look at during the rush.

Why it can happen

Visible homes, a launch spot, a written next step and a calendar prompt reduce the need to hold every future task in mind. The best system is the one they will actually use.

What might help

Ask where the task is most likely to be noticed: by the door, on the calendar, in a shared list or next to the item needed.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some people, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. Practical support can still be useful without deciding that ADHD is the explanation.

What can vary

Stress, sleep, health, environment, task design and preference can create similar patterns. Do not diagnose someone from a pattern or give support they have not asked for.

For this situation

For you, ask which format they notice: a note, an object by the door, a phone reminder or a shared list.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.